A snagging survey, also known as a ‘new-build home survey’ is a type of property inspection carried out on new-build properties before they are finished. The purpose of the snagging survey is to identify any problems with the building work that will need fixing before a new homeowner moves in. These issues could range from minor defects such as paintwork or loose tiles to more serious problems such as faulty kitchen appliances or damp.
Snagging surveys are carried out by a qualified property snagging survey near me surveyor, and should be done before the legal completion date for the property. Snagging surveys are normally less expensive than a standard homebuyer report or building survey and can save the new owner money on repair bills in the long run. Snagging surveys are also beneficial for housebuilders as they can highlight areas where improvements need to be made before a new homeowner moves in, so the builder has an opportunity to fix them prior to completion.
There are many companies that offer snagging surveys, so it is important to do your research and find the best one for you. Make sure that the company you choose is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and can provide testimonials from previous customers. You should also ensure that the company you choose can complete a full and detailed survey of your property, including the exterior and garden if applicable. Finally, make sure that the company you choose provides photographs and documentation of each issue that they identify.
Having a snagging survey carried out on a new-build property is a good idea, as it will ensure that all the faults are identified and reported to the housebuilder. This will allow the builder to correct them before the new homeowner moves in, and will prevent any disputes over the problems once they move in.
Snagging surveys are typically carried out by a professional property surveyor, but some people do them themselves. A professional snagging surveyor will be able to identify all the faults with a new-build property, and will be able to recommend the best course of action to take. In addition, a professional snagging surveyor will be experienced in dealing with builders and developers and will be able to negotiate effectively with them.
AW Surveyors strongly advise that a Snagging Survey is conducted on all new-build homes before the legal completion date. If this is not possible, then we would look to conduct a survey at any time after the completion date, as long as the defect list has not been fully completed by the housebuilder. This is known as a resnagging survey. The costs of a resnagging survey will be substantially higher than the cost of a Snagging Survey conducted at the outset, and will not be reimbursed by the housebuilder. AW Surveyors will advise you of the fees for a resnagging survey prior to booking. AW Surveyors can also act as your advocate to assist you in obtaining the necessary information from the housebuilder, if needed.